Reward Doubles for Information on Slain Trumpeter Swans

Donors have increased the reward from $1,000 to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible

Ann Arbor, MI (August 16, 2016) – After learning a family of trumpeter swans in Freedom Township had been intentionally killed last Wednesday, concerned citizens have more than doubled the reward money for information which would lead to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible. Their donations have increased the reward from $1,000 to $2,500.

Trumpeter swans are both federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and state protected as a threatened species in Michigan.

A joint effort by the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) indicates that someone driving southbound on Parker Road from Scio Church road veered off the side of the road to run over an adult and four baby swans around 6:15 a.m. Wednesday, August 10. Tire track markings suggest that the vehicle may be a Jeep or pick-up truck which has been lifted with large, 18-20 inch all-terrain tires.

The necropsy of the adult swan revealed injuries consistent with being run over by a motor vehicle.

“We’ve received an unbelievable number of calls from people living nearby and commuters on that road offering support,” says HSHV Animal Cruelty Investigator Aaron Soyring.

“Not just bird lovers are concerned,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, President and CEO of HSHV. “Studies show a startling connection between violence against animals and violence toward humans. This is not just an illegal, cruel act, but also this is a public safety issue.”

HSHV asks that anyone with information please call the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s tip line at (734) 973-7711 or HSHV’s 24-hour animal cruelty hotline at (734) 661-3512.

About The Humane Society of Huron Valley:

The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website (hshv.org) and on our annual report (www.hshv.org/2015annualreport).